Men versus woman – oral health care

As hard as this may seem to believe, there are definitely some oral health care differences between the sexes. These differences are either identified through overall health conditions, and that of oral hygiene. Below are some of the differences between the sexes and oral care health that all should take note of.

Traits of oral health that are the same between sexes

For most part a man and a woman’s mouths are not so different. Both sexes have teeth, a tongue, gums etc. Both sexes have to brush and clean their teeth regularly, and both sexes will experience plaque. Both are susceptible to similar mouth diseases and problems, these include halitosis, periodontal disease, tooth decay and oral cancer. Oral cancer usually occurs when we age, but the other diseases could occur at any time of our lives. The main differences between the oral health of the sexes lies in their anatomy. The female body goes through different stages, more so than the male body, and that has an effect on a women’s oral health.

Men and oral health

Studies have shown men are more likely to neglect their oral health. Research showed that 26% of men do not floss on a daily basis, or at all. This same study revealed that only 57% of men feel embarrassed about a missing tooth, compared to 74% of woman.

Even though men do not have to go through or experience pregnancy or menopause, which could affect a woman’s oral health, men must ensure to keep a good oral hygiene going. Males should take care not to develop gum disease, tooth decay or any other oral disease problems. To ensure a healthy, fresh and clean mouth, it is advised to brush the teeth at least twice a day, flossing at least once a day, and using alcohol free oral rinses. Above and beyond this, regular visits to your dentists will be an added advantage, and will prevent any mouth diseases.

Women and oral health

When a woman goes through pregnancy or menopause, her body goes through many changes. The mouth is not excluded in these changes. Research has proven that 60-75% woman have experienced gingivitis during their pregnancy. Gingivitis is a condition which affects the gums, which can lead to extreme gum disease and the loss of teeth. Most of these cases can be treated and prevented by regular good and proper brushing and flossing. However more severe cases have to be treated by a doctor.

Some woman who are postmenopausal could experience a burning sensation on the gums and tongue area. There could be a few reasons why this sensation happens, but this is more often than not linked to the hormonal changes occurring, and should be discussed with a doctor or dentist. Often when a woman has hormonal fluctuations from menopause or pregnancy, she develops a dry mouth. This is easily managed by drinking plenty of water, rinsing the mouth often, by avoiding any foods that contain plenty of salt or sugars, and chewing on sugar free gum. Any woman going through any type of hormonal changes should be aware that her oral health will be affected.